10 Essential Tips For Camping At Garibaldi Lake

Imagine waking up to the peaceful sounds of a lakeside, surrounded by tall mountains and green forests. Garibaldi Lake, one of British Columbia’s beautiful natural spots, offers a fantastic camping experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Whether you’re an experienced backpacker or planning your first outdoor trip, our 10 Essential Tips for Camping at Garibaldi Lake will give you the know-how to make your adventure safe, fun, and memorable.

Explore simple advice on the best trails, what gear to bring, and how to enjoy this stunning location. From setting up your campsite to following Leave No Trace rules, each tip is designed to enhance your outdoor experience.

As a professional traveler who has visited many remote places, I understand what makes a camping trip successful.

Don’t let common mistakes ruin your Garibaldi Lake getaway. Dive into our easy-to-follow guide and turn your camping plans into a smooth and magical journey. Ready to start the adventure of a lifetime? Let’s explore the top tips that will make your time at Garibaldi Lake truly amazing.

Why Garibaldi Lake Should Be Your Next Camping Destination

Nestled in the heart of Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia, Garibaldi Lake is a turquoise jewel surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests.

Its stunning beauty and accessibility have made it a popular destination for hikers and campers from around the world. But with great popularity comes great responsibility – both for your own safety and for preserving this natural wonder for future generations.

Before we dive into our essential tips, it’s worth noting that camping at Garibaldi Lake is part of a larger adventure. Many visitors combine their camping experience with day hikes or longer backpacking trips in the area. This versatility makes Garibaldi Lake an ideal base camp for exploring the surrounding wilderness.

10 Essential Tips for Camping at Garibaldi Lake

1. Secure Your Camping Permit Early

The first and most crucial step in planning your Garibaldi Lake camping trip is securing a permit. Due to the area’s popularity, permits often sell out months in advance, especially for summer weekends. Reservations can be made through the BC Parks Reservation System, typically opening in January for the upcoming summer season.

Pro Tip: Set a reminder for the day reservations open to increase your chances of securing your preferred dates.

2. Choose the Right Campsite

Garibaldi Lake offers 50 tent pads spread across two main camping areas. When booking, consider:

Proximity to the lake
Shelter from wind
Access to amenities like outhouses and food storage lockers

Remember, you must camp in designated areas to minimize environmental impact.

3. Pack Smart and Light

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is challenging, with an elevation gain of 820 meters over 9 kilometers. Pack light but don’t skimp on essentials. Key items include:

A lightweight tent
Sleeping bag rated for alpine conditions
Portable stove and fuel
Water filtration system
Bear-resistant food container

For international visitors, it’s worth noting that camping gear regulations may differ from your home country. If you’re entering Canada on a visa, make sure to check the required documents for a dependent visa if traveling with family members.

4. Be Bear Aware

Garibaldi Provincial Park is home to both black bears and grizzlies. Practice proper food storage by using the provided metal lockers or hanging your food at least 4 meters high and 1.5 meters away from the tree trunk. Never keep food or scented items in your tent.

5. Leave No Trace

Preserving Garibaldi Lake’s pristine environment is everyone’s responsibility. Follow Leave No Trace principles:

Pack out all trash, including food scraps
Use designated pit toilets
Stay on marked trails
Don’t feed wildlife

6. Prepare for Changing Weather

Alpine weather can be notoriously unpredictable, and Garibaldi Lake is no exception. Temperature swings of 20°C (36°F) within a single day are not uncommon in this region. To ensure your comfort and safety:

Layer your clothing: Use the three-layer system – base layer (moisture-wicking), insulating layer (fleece or wool), and outer layer (waterproof and windproof).
Pack for all seasons: Even in summer, nighttime temperatures can drop close to freezing. Bring a warm hat, gloves, and thermal underwear.
Don’t forget sun protection: UV radiation is stronger at higher altitudes. Bring sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Check multiple weather sources: Use reliable weather apps or websites that specialize in mountain forecasts, such as Mountain Forecast or SpotWx.
Be prepared to alter your plans: If severe weather is forecast, consider postponing your trip or be ready to cut it short if conditions deteriorate.

Remember, weather in the mountains can change rapidly. A clear morning can turn into an afternoon thunderstorm with little warning. Always err on the side of caution and be prepared for the worst while hoping for the best.

7. Arrive Early and Set Up Before Dark

The hike to Garibaldi Lake is challenging and time-consuming. Here’s why arriving early is crucial:

Trail difficulty: The 9km trail gains 820 meters in elevation, equivalent to climbing 240 flights of stairs. Most hikers take 4-5 hours to reach the lake.
Daylight considerations: During peak camping season (July-August), you have about 15-16 hours of daylight. Aim to start your hike no later than 10 AM to ensure ample setup time.
Campsite selection: Arriving early gives you a better choice of campsites. The 50 tent pads can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Safety: Setting up in daylight is safer and easier. You’ll have time to familiarize yourself with the area, locate facilities, and properly secure your food before night falls.
Exploration time: Early arrival allows you to explore the stunning surroundings, take photos, or even take a (very cold) dip in the lake before dinner.

Pro tip: If possible, consider hiking up the day before you plan to do any significant exploration or day hikes. This allows you to rest and acclimatize to the altitude, making your stay more enjoyable.

8. Bring a Camera (and Extra Batteries)

Garibaldi Lake is a photographer’s paradise, offering stunning vistas that change with the light throughout the day:

Golden hours: The best light for photography is typically just after sunrise and just before sunset. In summer, this means being ready to shoot around 5:30 AM and 9:00 PM.
Landscape opportunities: Capture reflections of the surrounding peaks in the lake’s still morning waters, or the alpenglow on the mountains at sunset.
Wildlife: Keep your camera ready for marmots, pikas, and various bird species. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens if possible.
Night photography: On clear nights, the lack of light pollution makes for excellent star photography. Bring a tripod and learn some basic night photography techniques before your trip.
Battery life: Cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly. Bring at least two extra sets of batteries and keep them warm in an inside pocket.
Weather-proofing: Consider bringing a weather-sealed camera or a protective cover, as mountain weather can change quickly.

While capturing memories is important, remember to put the camera down occasionally and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Some moments are best captured with your eyes and stored in your memory.

9. Plan Your Water Strategy

Proper hydration is crucial for a safe and enjoyable camping experience. Here’s how to manage your water at Garibaldi Lake:

Water availability: While the lake provides a plentiful water source at the campsite, there are limited reliable water sources along the trail. The last dependable source is at Km 5, so plan accordingly.
Carrying capacity: For the hike up, plan to carry at least 2-3 liters of water per person. A general rule of thumb is to drink about 1 liter of water for every 2 hours of hiking.
Water treatment: Despite its pristine appearance, all water from Garibaldi Lake should be treated before consumption. Options include:
Filtration systems: Look for filters that remove particles down to 0.2 microns.
UV purifiers: Effective against microorganisms, but don’t remove particulates.
Chemical treatments: Iodine or chlorine tablets are lightweight but can affect taste.
Boiling: Bring water to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute (3 minutes at this altitude) to make it safe for drinking.
Cookware consideration: If you plan to boil water for purification, ensure you have appropriate cookware and enough fuel.
Leave No Trace: When collecting water from the lake, do so away from the shoreline to minimize impact. Use biodegradable soap sparingly and at least 200 feet from any water source.

Remember, staying properly hydrated not only makes your trip more enjoyable but also helps prevent altitude sickness, which can occur even at Garibaldi Lake’s moderate elevation of 1,450 meters (4,760 feet).

10. Respect Quiet Hours and Fellow Campers

Garibaldi Lake campground can get busy during peak season. Respect quiet hours (typically from 10 PM to 7 AM) and be considerate of your fellow campers. Remember, everyone is there to enjoy the serenity of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any querries, make sure you check out our FAQs section. If you don’t find answer to your question, feel free to send us an email at contact@flyaroundglobe.com.

A: No, campfires are strictly prohibited in Garibaldi Provincial Park to prevent wildfires and protect the fragile alpine environment. Use a portable stove for cooking.

A: Yes, swimming is allowed, but be prepared for very cold water temperatures, even in summer. The lake is glacier-fed and rarely warms above 10°C (50°F).

A: There are no specific age restrictions, but children should be supervised at all times due to the remote location and potential hazards.

A: Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. Be prepared to pack out all dog waste.

A: The hike is considered moderately difficult due to its length (18 km round trip) and elevation gain (820 meters). It’s suitable for fit hikers with some experience.

Conclusion: Your Garibaldi Lake Adventure Awaits

Camping at Garibaldi Lake is more than just a night in the wilderness – it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories.

By following these 10 essential tips and being well-prepared, you’re setting yourself up for an unforgettable adventure in one of British Columbia’s most stunning locations.

Remember, the key to a successful camping trip at Garibaldi Lake lies in respecting the environment, being prepared for the conditions, and embracing the beauty of the wilderness. Whether you’re exploring the various hikes and trails in Garibaldi Provincial Park or simply soaking in the views from your campsite, your Garibaldi Lake experience is sure to be one for the books.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Garibaldi Lake camping adventure today, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime in this alpine paradise.

10 Essential Tips for Camping at Garibaldi Lake

Why Garibaldi Lake Should Be Your Next Camping Destination